OFWs warned against bogus franchisors

16 April 2010 – The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has asked the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to issue an advisory to all Philippine Embassies and Consulates General to warn overseas Filipinos against rampant franchising scams due to numerous complaints on fake franchisors victimizing overseas Filipino workers(OFWs).

The DTI identified the following companies and individual as bogus franchisors: Fran.con Franchise Marketing and Consultancy, Inc., Hamoraon Business Specialist Inc. and Michelle Ann Pacubas-Chan (single proprietor).

For verification of legitimate franchisors, the DTI advises overseas Filipinos to contact the DTI Direct Hotline 751-3330 or the Franchising Associations and other relevant government agencies.

Last March 23, the government agency held a dialogue with the Department of Labor and Employment, the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration, the Philippine Overseas Employment Agency, Franchising Associations, and a number of complainants to assist and resolve the concerns of OFWs who would like to venture into the franchising business.

Meanwhile, the DFA reminds the public to check the validity of their passports and renew them six months before expiry date to avoid the hassle of getting a replacement in light of increased passport applications especially during the summer season.

A passport is valid for five years, but airlines and countries require passports with validity of six months prior to the expiry date.

Currently, the DFA charges P950 for regular processing (20 working days) and P1,100 for expedited processing (10 working days).  For those applying in the DFA’s regional consular offices (RCOs), another four days is added for transport of the passport booklet from Manila to the RCO.

The DFA also reminds passport applicants to avail of the appointment system to ensure quick and comfortable service.  Walk-in applicants are discouraged.

The DFA further reiterates that securing an appointment online is free of charge. It is warning the public against unscrupulous individuals charging applicants P200 fee for securing for them online appointments.

Applicants can check the passport requirements and secure an appointment at www.passport.com.ph or by calling hotline (02) 737-1000. They may also call the DFA helplines at telephone numbers (02) 831-8971, (02) 551-4437, (02) 551-4402, (02) 834-4855 and (02) 834-4424.